The 7 T’s of Friendship in Marriage

 


In the context of building friendship in marriage, Seven T's — Time, Trust, Talk, Transparency, Test, Touch and Thanks — form a strong framework for deepening emotional intimacy and sustaining a lasting, fulfilling relationship. Here’s how each one plays a crucial role:


1. Time

Spending quality time together is the foundation of friendship in marriage. It’s not just about being in the same space but being intentional with how you share your time — whether through shared activities, regular date nights, daily check-ins, or simply being present with each other. Time builds familiarity, deepens emotional bonds, and allows the couple to grow together.

💬 “The more time you give, the deeper the friendship becomes.”


2. Trust

Friendship cannot thrive where there is suspicion or fear. In marriage, trust is built through consistent actions, honesty, reliability, and keeping your promises. It creates a safe environment where each partner feels secure, valued, and emotionally open.

💬 “Trust turns a spouse into a safe place — a true friend who has your back.”


3. Talk

Open and meaningful communication strengthens emotional intimacy. Talking includes sharing your thoughts, dreams, frustrations, and daily experiences. It’s not just about problem-solving — it’s about knowing each other deeply and being each other’s confidant and companion.

💬 “The best marriages are full of conversation, not just communication.”


4. Transparency

Being honest and vulnerable fosters a genuine friendship. Transparency means showing your real self — including your fears, past mistakes, and hopes — without masks or pretenses. It builds a bond where both partners feel accepted and understood.

💬 “Transparency deepens friendship because there’s nothing hidden, nothing to fear.”


5. Test

Every friendship — including the one in marriage — will face tests: misunderstandings, external pressures, or tough seasons. These tests reveal the strength of the bond and give couples the chance to grow stronger together. A tested friendship becomes more resilient and rooted.

💬 “A friendship that survives the storm becomes a fortress in marriage.”


6. Touch

Physical affection and intimacy are key to emotional closeness in marriage. But beyond sexual intimacy, simple gestures like holding hands, hugging, or gentle touches communicate love and warmth. They nurture the friendship by making your partner feel seen, valued, and loved.

💬 “In the language of love, touch often says what words cannot.”


7. Thanks

Gratitude is the heartbeat of lasting friendship in marriage. Saying “thank you” — not just for big gestures, but for everyday acts of love and support — affirms your partner’s value. It creates a culture of appreciation, softens the heart, and reduces entitlement. When couples consistently express thanks, they cultivate joy, respect, and mutual admiration.

💬 “A thankful heart keeps friendship alive in marriage.”

Gratitude says:

  • “I see you.”

  • “I value what you do.”

  • “I don’t take you for granted.”

Even in difficult seasons, finding reasons to be thankful keeps the relationship focused on the good, reinforcing the emotional connection and friendship.


Summary: The 7 T’s of Friendship in Marriage

  1. Time – Be present and intentional.

  2. Trust – Create a safe emotional space.

  3. Talk – Share, listen, connect.

  4. Transparency – Be real and vulnerable.

  5. Test – Endure and grow through challenges.

  6. Touch – Nurture physical and emotional closeness.

  7. Thanks – Celebrate each other with gratitude.

When couples prioritize these, they don’t just stay married — they stay friends, and that’s what makes the love last.

Kind regards,

John Arthur,
Author and President,
The School Of Friendship.

John Arthur

I am John Arthur. The President and Founder of The School of Friendship. I am an author of eight (8) books and speaker on Christian platforms, education and corporate organizations.

1 Comments

  1. Daddy thank you so much for these great inspiration

    It will be put into practice .

    ReplyDelete
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